Downpatrick & Co. Down Railway Pays Tribute to McGrady

12th November 2013

Eddie McGrady is pictured here in July 2000 at an event at the Loop Platform to launch the twinning of Downpatrick and Listowel towns

The Downpatrick & Co. Down Railway has expressed its “deep sadness” on learning of the passing of Eddie McGrady on Monday evening. As a prominent figure in the area, it was Eddie McGrady that the railway’s founder, Gerry Cochrane turned to for advice and support in regards the idea of establishing a heritage railway in the town.

Mr Cochrane said, “I first met Eddie in 1982 when he agreed to meet me to discuss my proposals for the restoration of the railway. At that time he was Chairman of Down District Council and his reaction to the proposal would, therefore, be essential.

“In the event, his enthusiasm surprised me and from that day his encouragement was instrumental in getting the project off the ground.”

He continues, “Indeed, throughout the development he was always ready to help on the numerous occasions when difficulties arose and in the early days; as a chartered accountant he acted as our auditor in a voluntary capacity when we were struggling to establish a sound financial footing in those fledgling days.

Mr. Cochrane added, “His contribution to the success of our railway cannot be overstated and he will be sadly missed by all of us who have had the honour of his acquaintance.”

His views were echoed by fellow founder, and DCDR vice-president, Mr. WF Gillespie, “Eddie was at the very first meeting with Gerry and I to discuss getting the Railway off the ground. He was a great help to us in the early stages, especially in establishing our relationship with the Council.”

He added, “In some of my other activities I also had reason to contact Eddie and I always found him to be a real gentlemen giving freely of his time to address the issues brought to him. A man who will be sadly missed by all who were privileged to know him.”

DCDR chairman, John Wilson, added his tribute, “Whilst the Downpatrick & Co. Down Railway has always been apolitical in its ethos and outlook, it is fair to say that without Eddie McGrady’s vital support at the inception of the project, there would be no railway in the town today. Eddie remained a friend of the DCDR throughout the years, and we deeply regret that he will not see our 30th Anniversary in 2015.”